McGee gets four-year contract extension, raise

The agreement, approved by the school's board of trustees executive committee, also automatically adds a contract year starting on April 30, 2004, and every year after that unless McGee or the school gives a 90-day notice of nonrenewal.

"It is fun coming to work every day and it is invigorating and meaningful to work with a terrific group of people," McGee said in a statement. "I believe there are some exciting times on the horizon for this athletics program."

McGee, who arrived after eight years at Southern Cal in 1993, is concluding his ninth year with the Gamecocks. He has overseen nearly $42 million in facility improvements including expanding and refurbishing Williams-Brice Stadium; putting lights on the football practice field; and updating baseball's Sarge Frye Field.

The school is building a $70 million basketball arena that should be finished in time for the 2002-2003 season.

The athletic department had revenue of more $34 million, up nearly 90 percent from when McGee arrived.